Mississippi Geography Degree Programs

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS

https://www.usm.edu/undergraduate-programs/geography.php

The Geography program at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) provides a well-rounded education in understanding Earth’s physical and human processes. With degree options available at the Hattiesburg and Gulf Park campuses, students can explore specializations such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), sustainable development, physical geography, biogeography, and human-environment interactions.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum emphasizes core areas such as geospatial technologies, environmental analysis, urban planning, and sustainability science. Foundational courses include map reading, cartography, and weather analysis, while advanced electives cover cultural and physical geography. Students benefit from a globally focused education that prepares them for careers in GIS, resource management, and environmental planning.

Hands-On Learning and Research

USM’s Geography program integrates hands-on learning through fieldwork, internships, and research opportunities. Faculty-led studies focus on regions such as the Gulf of Mexico, Latin America, and Europe, allowing students to gain practical experience in diverse settings. This emphasis on applied learning ensures students are career-ready upon graduation.

Faculty Expertise

The program’s faculty represents expertise across human, physical, and technical subfields of geography. Students have access to mentors with specialties in environmental analysis, geospatial technologies, and socio-cultural processes, ensuring a broad and balanced educational experience.

Additional Academic Options

USM offers a Geography Minor and a Geographic Information Technology Certificate for students who want to enhance their skills in geospatial analysis and modeling. The certificate program is open to both degree-seeking students and professionals seeking additional credentials.

Scholarships and Support

The program supports students with resources like the Arthell Kelley Scholarship, awarded to those who excel academically and engage in extracurricular activities. Dedicated faculty advisors help students tailor course selections to align with their career goals.

Career Preparation

Graduates of USM’s Geography program are well-prepared for careers in GIS, environmental analysis, urban planning, and sustainability. The program’s focus on fieldwork, technical skills, and research equips students to address global challenges and contribute meaningfully to their professional fields.

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS

https://www.deltastate.edu/artsandsciences/geospatial-information-technologies

Geospatial Information Technologies (GIT) is the study and application of tools like geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, GPS, and spatial analysis to solve problems from a geographic perspective.

GIT explores the “where” and “why” behind the location of events and objects, helping to unlock a deeper understanding of how the world works. This program is designed for students and professionals who want to apply these technologies to real-world challenges.

Fully Online and Affordable Programs

All GIT courses, certificates, and degrees are available fully online through Delta State University, with no out-of-state tuition charges. Full-time tuition is $3,369.50 per semester or $8,121 annually, making this program accessible to students nationwide.

The curriculum is tailored for both traditional and non-traditional students, including active-duty military personnel, with tuition rates closely aligned with military assistance programs.

Accredited Programs and Career Preparation

Delta State offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Geospatial Analysis and Intelligence, a 120-semester-hour program with 68 hours focused on core GIS topics. This degree is accredited by USGIF and prepares students for careers in geospatial analysis, intelligence, and related fields.

Students can also pursue the Geospatial Analysis and Intelligence Certificate, recognized for its alignment with professional GEOINT credentials. The curriculum supports certifications such as GISCI’s GIS Professional, ASPRS’s Certified Remote Sensing Scientist, and others.

Real-World Learning Experiences

The program emphasizes practical learning, requiring students to complete internships or cooperative education projects. Students work with partners such as the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, United Nations, FEMA, the US Marine Corps, and more.

This hands-on approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.

Flexible Study Options

Students can take 1-2 courses at a time year-round, allowing for flexible scheduling that matches the pace of traditional full-time programs. Faculty provide downloadable materials for offline study, accommodating students with limited internet access.

Virtual computing support is also available for those without GIS-capable devices.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Delta State’s campus features a teaching lab with 21 workstations, high-definition projection, and surround sound. The production lab includes 12 workstations, a 60-inch plotter, high-speed printers, and a large-format scanner, offering students access to industry-standard tools and technology.

Partnerships and Opportunities

The Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information Technologies collaborates with organizations like the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, US Geological Survey, Mississippi Emergency Management, and the United Nations. These partnerships provide internship opportunities and ensure students are engaged with leading industry practices.

Program Highlights

  • Fully Online: Accessible to students nationwide with no out-of-state tuition.
  • Accredited Programs: Recognized GEOINT programs by USGIF.
  • Real-World Focus: Internship opportunities with top-tier partners.
  • Military Friendly: Tuition aligned with military assistance and flexible scheduling.
  • State-of-the-Art Labs: High-tech teaching and production facilities on campus.
  • Professional Credentials: Curriculum aligned with certifications like GISCI and ASPRS.